Spring Celebration: Gala on the Hudson

CSC hosted our 3rd Annual Spring Celebration in New York City on April 26th. More than 300 supporters gathered to celebrate the many achievements of CSC and honor the partners and sponsors who make our work possible. This elegant evening at the Lighthouse, Pier 61 on the Hudson River was hosted by CBS Legal News Analyst, Jack Ford with a performance by Brian d’Arcy James from NBC’s new musical drama “Smash”, which resulted in a fun and memorable evening!

Three important awards were presented, honoring the legacies of our founders: Harold Benjamin (The Wellness Community) and Joanna Bull (Gilda’s Club Worldwide). These awards were presented to valued partners whose dedication to our mission honors the extraordinary example set by our founders.

Amgen Oncology and its Breakaway from Cancer initiative was presented with the Founders Award for Innovation for their support empowering patients with education, resources and hope. The award was accepted by Stuart Arbuckle, Amgen’s Vice President & General Manager.

The Founders Award for Leadership was presented to Carmen Marc Valvo, who has raised important funds and awareness for colon cancer research and support. As a colon cancer survivor himself, Carmen has been working with many notable figures such as Katie Couric and Vanessa Williams to raise awareness and encourage early screening and detection for the disease.

Finally, the Founders Award for Vision was awarded to the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer for the adoption of the new patient centered standards the Commission is implementing, particularly around distress screening. The award was accepted by Dr. Stephen Edge the Chairman of the Commission on Cancer who spoke about the many advancements made in providing complete cancer care and where progress is still needed.

The evening was followed by dinner, music and dancing and featured two special elements that helped CSC raise vital funds to support our mission. First, John Wind, founder of the Philadelphia-based company, Maximal Art, who’s known internationally for his modern and vintage inspired jewelry and gifts, premiered his exclusive custom made CSC piece, which was sold throughout the event. In addition, Dhani Jones, a former NFL player, premiered an exclusive CSC bow tie as part of his Bow Tie Cause organization whose mission to provide an avenue to support both individuals and organizations they believe in by rocking a signature Bow Tie. All proceeds from both items were donated to CSC. These items will also be available for purchase on www.cancersupportcommunity.org in the near future.

We extend many thanks to all who were able to attend and support our event. Be sure to visit our Facebook page to view pictures from this memorable evening!